We can all agree that when winter rolls around, there's nothing better than a Christmas meal. If you're in search of places to eat throughout the festive period, we've got you covered. From classic spreads with roast turkey to quirky favourites like a pigs in blanket pizza, here's your guide on where to get the best Christmas dinner in Essex.
Last updated on 6th November 2023
If you're looking for a place to have Christmas dinner in Colchester, have a peek at The Centurian. It's a colourful, bustling pub boasting plenty of character, as well as affordable multi-course menus and festive buffets that'll have you licking your chops for days.
Original Plough really sleighs this time of year, what with its gorgeous country pub feel and stellar selection of bites. Three-course meal options include a turkey dinner pie and 'snow burger like it', topped by a Yorkshire pudding filled with Irish whiskey sauce.
Situated right opposite Romford station, The Goose is a warm, welcoming pub with a quirky Christmas dinner menu. Perch upon an upholstered chair and feast your eyes on bargain eats like hand-carved turkey accompanied by roast potatoes. Finish with a cookie apple pie and glass of wine.
A friendly pub in the heart of Hornchurch's town centre, The Sutton Arms has a vibrant atmosphere, as well as dishing up an excellent roast for your Christmas dinner. Expect the menu to include traditional turkey filled with pork, cranberry and fig stuffing, plus festive burgers.
Whipping up two or three courses alongside tantalising finger food spreads, Slug and Lettuce's Colchester and Chelmsford branches are the ultimate party destinations no matter your group size. Plus, keep the gang well-watered with drinks packages and festive cocktails.
The Travellers Friend is helping to take the stress away from your festive forays, armed with seasonal set menus that pack the wow factor. Head to this Woodford pub for braised feather blade beef and turkey with all of the trimmings, not to mention a lip-smacking Christmas pudding.
When it comes to Christmas dinner in Southend, Grosvenor Casino has to be right up there. Not only do you have loads of traditional choices on the sit-down menu, but also themed cocktails ranging from tiramisu martinis to a winter spritz.
Do something a little different by heading to Golden Fleece for a delightful Christmas dinner in Chelmsford. It's keeping you well-fed with its festive burgers and pigs in blanket-topped mac 'n' cheese, not to mention the indulgent filled doughnuts and freshly poured pints.
Whatever your Christmas party needs may be, you can count on The Bull in Romford to come through. Join them for a good ol' fashioned knees-up, complete with three courses of quirky festive fare or banging buffet bites, as well as plenty of prosecco for those all-important toasts.
For a festive twist on toad-in-the-hole, head to The Fatling Hornchurch, quietly nestled next to the high street. The giant pig in blanket yorkie served with mash is bound to be a crowd pleaser, along with chocolatey desserts. To drink, there's a vast selection of real ales.
Sporting mismatched furniture and a cosy feel, Church Street Tavern is a must for seasonal get-togethers. Hide away from winter winds here with steaming hot plates of British grub, including beef sirloin, market fish, roast celeriac and a sticky fig Christmas pudding delight.
From a traditional Christmas Day lunch in Essex to festive burgers and a freshly baked turkey pie, the dishes at Inn On The Green are not to be scoffed at. Chow down on three beautifully prepared plates while celebrating with your nearest and dearest in snug surrounds.
